Cat owners have been warned against spraying their pets with water to cool them down during the heatwave, as temperatures in the UK are set to reach up to 33°C over the bank holiday weekend. Veterinarian Mireia Balliu says this common practice can cause great stress to cats, who dislike it and may become distressed.
Instead, Balliu recommends focusing on hydration, ventilation, and providing cool resting spots. Cats are particularly vulnerable to heat because they cannot sweat effectively and have limited ability to regulate body temperature, making them prone to heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, weakness, tremors, reddened gums, vomiting, loss of coordination, and loss of consciousness. Owners should act quickly and seek veterinary help if these symptoms appear. Elderly cats, kittens, overweight cats, those with chronic illnesses, and brachycephalic breeds like Persians are at higher risk.
To keep cats safe, Balliu advises offering fresh water in multiple shaded locations, keeping the home ventilated, avoiding direct sun exposure, and never leaving a cat in a closed car. Safe cooling methods include gently stroking with a damp glove, placing chilled towels or frozen water bottles wrapped in towels on the floor, and using cooling mats. Brushing long-haired cats daily can also help.
